Thanksgiving in New York

The holidays are always magical in New York City, from dazzling decorations to fantastic feasts. Thanksgiving is no exception!

By Katie Sagal
Published: May 16, 2024
New York

Thanksgiving is one of our favorite times of year in New York City. It kicks off the beautiful holiday season and is a wonderful holiday in its own right. It’s also the time of year when one of New York’s greatest public events takes place – the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

If you’re searching for some great seasonal activities and things to do in November, check out a few of these suggestions. Here are our top attractions and events to make the most of Thanksgiving in New York, including:

  • Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
  • Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar
  • Holiday Train Show
  • Bank of America Winter Village
  • Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Macy's Thanksgiving day parade

There isn't a more iconic holiday event in New York City than the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

This parade, which began almost a century ago with only 50 people marching through the streets of New York, has become a real institution. It takes place from 77th Street to 34th Street. Find a spot along the route to watch the giant balloons of your favorite cartoons, the fantastically decorated floats, and the artists parading in front of you. The festive atmosphere is amazing!

Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar, 501 Union Street

Brooklyn holiday market

A great destination for all your holiday shopping needs is the Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar. Browse through hundreds of beautiful gifts from local makers and select national crafters. You’ll find everything from paintings to handmade paper to handcrafted jewelry. Enjoy festive music and grab a bite to eat from participating vendors to get in the festive spirit. After shopping, make the most of the neighborhood with a walking tour.

Admission to the Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar is free, and you can use your pass to enjoy the Brooklyn walking tour.

Holiday Train Show, New York Botanical Garden

new-york-botanic-garden-holiday-train

This uniquely New York phenomenon is a sight to behold. Come to the New York Botanical Garden to find yourself immersed in a magical world of nature and technology. Watch mini trains wind through a wonderland of NYC landmarks and icons. All the pieces of the set are constructed out of natural elements like bark, leaves, berries, and more.

Plus, there's a half-mile of train tracks throughout, so you'll get to see plenty of the tech side, too. This annual event is beloved by locals and is a must-see for families and adults alike! Access to this special exhibit is included with regular admission.

The Nutcracker Ballet, Lincoln Center

nutcracker-manhattan

This Thanksgiving weekend, don't miss out on the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with an iconic performance of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. It's a tour de force of flawless ballet, gorgeous sets and costumes, and a timeless score. From the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the Snow Scene, it's no wonder some people go every year!

If you don't get to see The Nutcracker, it's still worth taking a tour of Lincoln Center to see the holiday decorations.

Bank of America Winter Village, Bryant Park

skating-bryant-parkmanhattannew-york

Searching for a unique, yet affordable place to pick up holiday gifts in New York City? The Winter Village in Chelsea’s Bryant Park should be on your list. There are more than 120 shops, kiosks, food stands, and more. You’ll be able to find something for everyone on your list.

This European-inspired market provides an excellent souvenir-shopping opportunity too! Don’t forget about the ice-skating. Skating is free (although you need to bring your own skates), and Bryant Park’s massive outdoor rink is a sight to behold. The ice-skating rink is open until March.

Getting In: Admission to Winter Village is free.

Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting

rockefeller-christmas-tree-glowing-angels

If you happen to be in town for a few days after Thanksgiving Weekend, it's worth a trip to Rockefeller Center to see them light their iconic tree. Typically a Norwegian Spruce, this tree will arrive in NYC in early November. A massive 30,000 LED lights and a Swarovski crystal star will decorate the tree. The lights are switched on during this ceremony, which is bound to be a special memory.

This special holiday tradition is sure to inspire the festive spirit in you. While you're in the area, why not take a tour of Rockefeller Center and learn all about its significance and rich history?

Sightsee and save on attraction admission in New York

Discover our full line-up of New York attractions including The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observatory, the Statue of Liberty, and more.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Please note, some of these special November events may be separately ticketed and not included with the pass. Consider adding a few of these fun options to your November weekend itineraries. Happy Thanksgiving!

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Midtown

No visit to New York is complete without exploring Midtown. Situated at the very heart of Manhattan, the area is home to some of the city’s best cultural attractions, shopping opportunities, and dining spots. Spend the day shopping on Fifth Avenue or view the city from dizzying heights at the Empire State Building. Or, if you’re an arts lover, check out the Museum Mile or head uptown to catch a musical on Broadway. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our guide of the best things to do in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Explore the Area If you’re looking for the ultimate shopping experience, there’s no better place to be than Midtown. Stretching for six whole miles through the district, Fifth Avenue draws in millions of visitors each year – and with good reason! The street has much to offer, with popular flagships, upscale boutiques, and spectacular window displays, especially around Christmastime. Flanked with enticing attractions and buzzing with life, this major attraction delivers a shopping experience going way beyond our wildest dreams. Dive into the crowds, pick up a souvenir for your loved ones, and soak up the incredible atmosphere. Hey, what’s not to love? Though New York is most usually recognized for its towering skyscrapers and modern structures, the city is home to many beautiful historic buildings. An absolute must-see for history buffs and architecture geeks alike, St. Patrick’s Church is known as the biggest Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States. Occupying an entire city block, the venerable structure stands out amongst its neighbors with a real sense of authority and presence. Both the exterior façade and interior design of the church are incredibly fascinating, as they tell a whole lot about the city’s religious and architectural past. Still, the main draw of the site is its atmospheric underground catacombs, which showcase the intricacies of 19th Century art and innovation. One of our favorite things about Midtown is that there’s a surprise around every corner. Situated between Madison Avenue and Broadway, Koreatown (AKA ‘’Korean Times Square’’) is one of the best-kept secrets of the area. Here, visitors can enjoy interesting shops, great restaurants, and a vibrant sense of community. This small but sweet enclave would be the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after catching a show on Broadway. See the Sites It’d just be wrong to write about the Midtown area without mentioning the Empire State Building. A world-famous attraction and mainstay of New York City culture, the iconic tower is one of the most impressive highlights of the cityscape. Still billed as one of the tallest buildings in the world, this majestic structure grants captivating views of Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, as well as five different states. We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets online ahead of time to cut down on your queueing time! Of all the things to do in Midtown, one of the area’s biggest draws is Grand Central Station. Infinitely more than just a train station and commuter’s hub, this iconic tourist magnet has long served as an emblem of New York City culture. This national historic landmark is perhaps best known for its beautiful architecture and unique history – its famous golden clockwork, intricate tilework, and swooping arches and most certainly a sight to behold. Those who are interested in learning more about the background of the building can take historical tours. In addition, the attraction packs over 100 dining and shopping vendors all under one roof! Midtown presents an incredible wealth of cool things to do, see and experience. Comprised of a whopping 19 commercial buildings and spanning over 22 acres, the Rockefeller Center is a fantastic stop for any first-time visitor. Whether you’re looking for live music, historical artwork, or live tapings of your favorite talk show, this is where you want to be. Catch a show at Radio City Music Hall, tour NBC Studios, and in the wintertime, take a spin on its world-famous ice rink. The world’s your oyster! Get Cultured New York is an art lover’s dream, with Midtown presenting some of the city’s top cultural institutions. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, the Museum of Modern Art is often recognized as one of the biggest and most influential institutions of its kind. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an expansive collection of over 200, 000 artworks across all mediums. Particular highlights include Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Salvador Dalì’s The Persistence of Memory and Roy Lichtenstein’s Drowning Girl. Looking for a memorable cultural experience? Look no further than Broadway! Situated on a popular thoroughfare of the same name, the notable theater is often considered to be the most influential playhouse in the United States. Unlike indie playhouses, the Broadway Theater runs classic crowd-pleasers which are sure to suit those travelling with friends or family. You can see famous shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Moulin Rouge, and The Lion King. The theater is located on 53rd Street, with plenty of restaurants and bars just minutes away. Another one of our favorite things to do in Midtown is visit the Morgan Library. Formerly the private collection of financier J. Pierpont Morgan, this majestic repository is a total bibliophile’s paradise. Situated on Madison Avenue, this Italian Renaissance-style palazzo shelters the largest on-paper collection of art, literature and musical works in the United States. Particular standouts include one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence, Charles Dickens’s manuscript of A Christmas Carol, and a signed manuscript of Henry David Thoreau’s Walden. There are endless things to see, do and experience in Midtown. From the area’s world-class entertainment venues to its fantastic shopping destinations, dining spots and architectural landmarks, it’s essentially impossible to take it all in in just one visit. Whatever you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed; rather, you’ll struggle to fit it all in. Make the best out of your travel experience with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
NYC subway sign
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New York in February

Wondering what to do in New York this February? Don’t worry – we've got you covered with the most exciting events, activities and attractions to make memories that should last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to see the sites, attend a film festival, or go ice skating right in the center of Central Park, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. If you’re planning to make the trip, have a look through our comprehensive guide of all that the city has to offer. Make the best out of your travel experience with our All-Inclusive pass and Explorer pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less. See the Sites Don’t let the cold weather keep you stuck inside! The city is home to some of the most revered cultural amenities in the world. Built into an authentic subway station that was shut down in 1936, the New York Transit Museum is the biggest repository in the United States dedicated to public transportation. A great stop for history buffs, the museum houses a unique collection of archival artefacts, old photographs and reading materials explaining how the city’s transit system has changed over the years. Fascinating and unique, the institute is a great educational experience for those of all ages. Why not warm up this wintertime by visiting some of the best museums that New York has to offer? Situated in Lower Manhattan, the Museum of Chinese in America seeks to present the living history, heritage, and diverse experiences of the city’s largest minority culture. Interesting yet not overwhelming, the museum houses a unique collection of ancient pottery, black and white photographs, and works by renowned fashion designers, all pertaining to Asian American history. Through immersive exhibitions, educational programs, and Chinatown walking tours, visitors can learn more about how Asian immigrants have contributed to the American narrative. One of the best things to do on a chilly New York afternoon is to go to visit a quintessential landmark up close. Situated in a district of the same name, the Flatiron Building is most certainly a sight to behold. Designed by Chicago architect Daniel Burnham and constructed in 1902, the building’s distinctive triangular shape originally served to allow it to properly fill the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway. Today, the dramatic structure stands as an iconic symbol of the city, drawing in millions of visitors each year. Get Cultured Since New York is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the United States, it's no surprise that the area presents many great festivals celebrating the area’s diversity in culture. A spectacular fiesta of fun and festivities, the Lunar New Year parade marches down Mott and Canal Street each year, eventually culminating at Sara D. Roosevelt Park. Lively and totally over-the-top, the event features stunning floats, traditional dancing, and delicious food. With its incredible atmosphere and so much to see, we couldn’t think of a better way to experience the city. If you’d like to experience the cultural prowess of New York City on your trip, we recommend looking into Off-Broadway Week. That’s right – in the wintertime, one of the city’s most famous creative amenities spreads its wings to offer theater fans something a little different. Running from the beginning of the month, visitors should be able to find a wide array of interesting performances taking place at intimate New York venues. From comedies and dramas to musicals and Cirque du Soleil performances, there’s a little something for everybody here. February is Black History Month, with many of the city’s best cultural institutes celebrating in style. Running for three weeks, the Lincoln Center hosts its New York African American Film Festival, recognizing the community’s finest creatives and resounding resilience through the arts. Showing a broad selection of classic fictional narratives, short films, and documentary pieces, there's more than enough to choose from. Those who are particularly interested in African American filmmaking can also attend workshops, public talks, and discussions with the filmmakers. Find Fun Activities Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of February in New York is attending Winter Jam NYC. Totally admission free and set against the urban wonderland that is Central Park, this annual snow sport extravaganza is the perfect family day out. As joyful as it is memorable, the extravagant pop-up includes ice-skating, sledging, snowboarding and more. In addition, eventgoers can enjoy live ice carving, a sculpture garden and bobsled and snowcat photo opportunities right in the city center. Hey, what’s not to love? New York is well-renowned for its delicious culinary offerings. To grab a slice of the action, check out New York Restaurant Week. Running from the start of the month, the event grants visitors with the opportunity to eat at favorite NYC restaurants at bargain prices. A total dream for any gastronome, the festival features a broad array of cuisines including French, Korean, Mexican and much, much more. Whether you’re looking to try out one of the city’s fine dining establishments or grab a bite at a unique Brooklyn bistro, you’ll be able to find some great deals. Amateur Night at the Apollo is the ultimate New York entertainment experience. Since its establishment in 1934, the classic talent competition has gained wide recognition for launching the careers of many world-renowned performers, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Lauryn Hill, and Machine Gun Kelly. Eclectic and serious in its intentions, the competition attracts performers from all around the globe working across a wide variety of art forms – meaning you never know what you might get. Here’s how it works: artists take to the stage and are subject to the harsh critique of the audience. If people applaud, they continue. However, if the public boos, they must leave the stage. Presenting an incredible atmosphere and a fun interactive experience, there’s no way you’ll want to miss out on this one! The air is brisk, the nights are long, and the crowds have thinned out – but that’s never stopped New York from having a good time. Sure, the colder months aren't exactly known for music festivals and hitting the shores, but February brings a whole host of interesting activities, exciting events, and world-class attractions for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re looking to see a play, taste some of the finest cuisine in the area or crush the cold at one of the city’s famous museums, New York offers so much to do well beyond the holiday season. Make the most out of your travel experience and create unforgettable memories with our All-inclusive pass and Explorer pass. To find out more, check us out on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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